Acts of Subversion: Two 21st Century Australian Novels

Jump into the unknown with novels both modern and provocative. The novel is always new and it may also act as subversive mirror to the past, present and future. In this course we will focus on a close reading and understanding of two new Australian novels, over 5 sessions. The role of the novel in Australia today, the interweaving of ‘real’ and ‘fictional’ characters, the importance of the literary past and the sheer joy in seeing master novelists at work will form partof the our own act of subversion as we read slowly, carefully and with much pleasure.

Getting Started1. Start your Group: Anyone can start a Discussion Group – seek out some like-minded friends or put up a notice in your local library, bookshop or workplace. There are many existing groups that welcome new members. If you wish to start a new group to suit your situation WEA can help you, please note that a minimum of 6 people is required to start a new discussion group.2. Arrange the meetings: New groups need to decide where and when to meet, and for how long – whatever best suits members' particular situations.3. Run your Group: Choose a secretary to liaise with WEA and your tutor, a Discussion Leader to chair meetings, a reporter to take discussion notes to send to your tutor, and maybe a librarian to look after the books.

How to Enrol1. First check the availability of your selection by contacting WEA Sydney. Bookings can be made for one year, divided into two terms – Term 1 commences in February, Term 2 in July (Groups may make forward bookings for popular choices).2. Indicate in what order your Group wishes to study the courses, if more than one course is booked.3. Download and fill out a copy of the WEA Sydney Discussion Group Program Enrolment Form and send it to the Discussion Group Co-ordinator to enrol.

Please note that additional postage (Cash on Delivery) for receiving course material will be required.